More and more new homes are being designed and built with large expanses of glass such as skylights, panoramic windows and sliding/bi-folding doors. Although these features help create a feeling of endless space by flooding a room with natural light, the combination of extensive glazing, high levels of insulation and a warming climate is resulting in buildings severely overheating.
Because of this, on 15th June 2022, the government introduced Part 0 of the Building Regulations as a way to prevent temperatures in modern ‘glass box’ design new homes from rising to uncomfortable levels that put occupant health at risk. The goal is to limit unwanted solar gain throughout the warmer months and provide occupants with adequate means of quickly removing excess heat from unsafe indoor environments.
This latest regulation has changed the way new homes are designed and built – large expanses of glass now require some form of shading to prevent overheating. Solar control glass and air conditioning are not a solution.
Dynamic external blinds have an important part to play in keeping buildings cool, whilst saving energy and helping our climate journey. By creating a barrier in front of the glazing they’re mounted to – whether it’s a sliding / folding patio door, skylight or conservatory roof – outdoor roller blinds can block up to 97% of the sun’s solar heat energy, reducing interior room temperatures by up to 18°C on even the hottest summer days.
Similarly, awnings, by creating a canopy off the side of the building, also provide a cooling effect to the indoor room, whilst as an added benefit providing shade and shelter to the outdoor space and providing a seamless flow from indoor-outdoor living. Both external blinds and awnings will also prevent fixtures and furnishings from bleaching and offer a min. 97.5% UV block, protecting skin. Bright light is also diffused to prevent glare.
Bioclimatic pergolas with rotating aluminium louvered roofs (and opening / closing sides) are a modern solution to shading indoor spaces when installed abutting the property, with the louvers rotating from closed to open (usually 150 degrees) stopping at any position to provide precise sun control and ventilation. Featuring a waterproof roof and designed for year-round use, they extend the indoor living space whilst perfectly controlling the elements, with the roofs entirely waterproof and even snowproof when closed.
To find out more about our innovative range of external shading systems, that will not only prevent excessive solar heat gain to new homes being built that are susceptible to overheating, but existing properties too (of which the majority of building stock will remain for years to come), contact one of our knowledgeable shading experts on 0344 800 1947 or use our quick enquiry form here.
Alternatively, our Shading Guide, put together by industry-leading experts explains why buildings overheat and how external shading is so effective (the facts and figures) along with the importance of automation.
